Question

In what ways are state constitutions similar to one another? in what ways are they different?

Answer 1

The constitutions of the different states can present some huge differences. A good way to examplify this can be to look at a length comparisson: with the Constitution of Vermont currently being the shortest at 8.295 words long and Alabama State's Constitution sitting on top with 345.000 words.

However, they do share more similarities than differences, as they all respond to the same Federal Constitution. They're categorized as texts of organic law, meaning that they represent a foundation for the government. Even though they're always subject to changes, these modifications only happen in cases of extreme importance that can't be covered with the release of normal laws or statutes.

All State Constitutions explicitly organize the structure of their specific State government and establish what their own executive, legislative, and judicial branches should be doing. They also have each their own Bill of Rights.

Many State Constitutions start with an invocation of God, while a lot of them don't. In addition, only some of them allow changes to the document by initivative of the people or referendum.

Hope this is helpful to you!